ANAC

The National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC), established by Law No. 11.182 of 2005, is a special autonomous agency linked to the Brazilian Ministry of Ports and Airports. The agency holds the regulatory and oversight authority for all national civil aviation, covering passenger and cargo air transport operations, airport infrastructure, airworthiness, professional training, and operational safety (both safety and security).

ANAC’s jurisdiction extends throughout the entire Brazilian territory and governs all civil aircraft in domestic airspace, as well as Brazilian-registered aircraft in international airspace (in accordance with the guidelines of the International Civil Aviation Organization - ICAO). Its primary responsibilities include:

• Technical and economic regulation of the air transport market.
• Granting of airport infrastructure concessions and certification of aerodromes.
• Certification of aircraft, maintenance facilities, and aviation schools.
• Ensuring the quality of air transport services and monitoring compliance with passenger rights.

• July 2026 — seat next to a guardian: ANAC Resolution 807/2026 requires airlines to ensure, at no extra cost, that children under 16 sit next to at least one responsible adult. Choosing specific seats in advance and seats with extra legroom can still be charged.

Official changes from this authority that affect passengers appear in this guide's updates as they are published. Each one is checked against the official document before it goes live.

Current ANAC rules (based on Resolution No. 400) ensure tariff transparency and precisely define passenger rights regarding baggage:

Carry-on Baggage (Mandatory Free Allowance)

• Weight Limit: Every passenger is entitled to transport at least 10 kg of carry-on baggage in the cabin free of charge.
• Dimensions: Brazilian airlines use the standard of 55 cm x 35 cm x 25 cm (including handles, pockets and wheels) to fit the overhead bin.
• Personal Item: In addition to carry-on baggage, passengers may carry one smaller personal item (such as a backpack, laptop bag, or shoulder bag) which must be stored under the seat in front of the passenger.

Checked Baggage

• Airlines have tariff freedom. This means checked baggage allowances may be charged separately. Companies must offer different fare classes (allowing passengers to choose cheaper fares without checked baggage allowance).
• Tariff Transparency: At the time of purchase, the fee corresponding to baggage check-in must be clearly itemized before finalizing the payment.

Baggage Loss and Damage

• Loss: If the suitcase is not located upon arrival, the passenger must immediately complete a Property Irregularity Report (PIR/RIB) in the arrivals hall. The airline has up to 7 days (domestic flights) or 21 days (international flights) to locate and deliver the baggage.
• Reimbursement for Expenses: While baggage is missing (away from the passenger's home), the airline is obligated to reimburse expenses for essential items (hygiene and clothing).
• Damage or Tampering: Passengers have up to 7 days after receiving the baggage to file a complaint for damage or tampering. The carrier must repair the baggage, replace it with an equivalent item, or compensate the passenger.

In 2026, rules for pet transport are strictly detailed to ensure animal welfare:

• Transport Modes: Transport can occur in the passenger cabin (generally for small dogs and cats, whose weight combined with the kennel/carrier does not exceed the limit of 7 to 10 kg imposed by each airline's policy) or in the cargo hold (for medium and large animals, housed in IATA-approved kennels).
• Required Documentation (Domestic Flights):
• A health certificate issued by a veterinarian registered with the CRMV, valid for 10 days.
• Up-to-date vaccination card proving the rabies vaccine (administered more than 30 days and less than 1 year prior).
• Required Documentation (International Flights): Requires the International Veterinary Certificate (CVI) issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA), in addition to microchipping and serology according to the destination country's sanitary requirements.
• Service Dogs: Transport of service dogs (assisting visually or mobility-impaired individuals) is exempt from fees. The animal must travel in the cabin, positioned on the floor at the handler's feet, wearing a collar and harness. This does not count as carry-on baggage or toward the standard pet limit.

ANAC's rules focus on protecting minors and making family travel easier:

• Seat next to a guardian: under ANAC Resolution 807/2026 (July 2026), children under 16 are entitled to sit next to at least one responsible adult at no extra cost: the airline must guarantee seats together when the ticket is bought and when the booking is changed. Choosing specific seats in advance, seats with extra space and class upgrades can be charged.
• Lap infants: children under 2 can travel on an adult's lap; each airline sets the price (usually a fraction of the fare, plus taxes).
• Stroller and car seat: airlines usually carry one stroller and one car seat per child free of charge, checked at the counter or at the gate; check your airline's policy.
• Under-16s without their parents (domestic flights): they may only travel with a close relative who can prove the relationship, with a person authorised by the parents (authorisation with a notarised signature or the Electronic Travel Authorisation) or with a court authorisation. To travel alone, a minor needs the same authorisation from the parents (or a court) and usually the airline's unaccompanied-minor service, which has its own minimum age.

Guidelines for assisting Passengers with Special Assistance Needs (PNAE) are governed by ANAC Resolution No. 280:

• Eligible Individuals: The elderly (60+), pregnant women, nursing mothers, individuals accompanied by infants, persons with physical, intellectual, or sensory disabilities, persons with reduced mobility, or anyone requiring special assistance due to a medical condition.
• Mobility aids: the passenger's wheelchair, crutches, walker and other mobility aids are carried free of charge; check the number of items with the airline. If the wheelchair is checked in, the airline must provide a wheelchair to get to the aircraft door.
• Companion Discount: When a PNAE requires a companion for essential assistance (per medical analysis), the airline must offer a discount of at least 80% on the companion's ticket, who must travel in the same cabin and in an adjoining seat.
• Request Deadlines and Medical Forms:
• General Assistance (wheelchairs, boarding assistance): Must be requested from the airline at least 48 hours before the flight.
• MEDIF (Medical Information Form): A medical form completed by the passenger's doctor to confirm travel safety. Must be sent to the airline at least 72 hours in advance.
• FREMEC (Frequent Traveller Medical Card): A medical card for frequent travelers with stable chronic conditions, waiving the need to submit a MEDIF for each flight during its validity (usually 1 year).

To view the full updated legislation or file complaints, visit the official government portals below:

• Official ANAC Website
• Passenger Rights and Duties Guide (ANAC)
• ANAC Resolution No. 400 (General Conditions of Air Transport)
• ANAC Resolution No. 280 (Accessibility - PNAE)
• Official Platform for Passenger Complaints (Consumidor.gov.br)